London’s Jewish museum has announced plans to close its site in Camden indefinitely, citing “unanticipated rising costs” in a statement.
The museum is selling its current venue despite being awarded National Portfolio Organisation status by Arts Council England in November and securing £224,000 in annual funding until 2026.
“We are aware of the challenges being experienced by Jewish Museum London and are working closely with the board, the leadership team and stakeholders to support the museum as it addresses its financial resilience and determines the options available to them,” said Tonya Nelson, London area director for Arts Council England.
The institution celebrates Jewish life, faith and culture, and helps to tackle prejudice and antisemitism. During the closure, it will be accessible online and in temporary venues.
Camden site to close indefinitely
Its collections will move from the Grade II-listed Georgian town house to specialised storage. This will free up funds for its temporary operational costs, and for its new site.
The museum plans to move to “a more prominent location” where it will offer a modern, engaging and inspiring visitor experience.
Nick Viner, chair of Jewish Museum London, said the museum “is at a crossroads” and has “an extraordinary opportunity to re-envisage the museum for the future”.
“Our decision to sell the current building is not taken lightly, but as trustees it’s our responsibility to consider the longer-term sustainability of the museum,” Viner said.
Museum selling current venue
“As the collection leaves Albert Street for a new temporary home, it will also create opportunities to experiment, as we develop the new vision for Jewish Museum London together with all our stakeholders.”
The Jewish Museum London, founded in 1932, was originally located in Bloomsbury. In 1994, it moved to a Victorian listed building in Camden Town. It opened in its current site in 2010 after merging with the London Museum of Jewish Life.
The museum is working with Camden Council on its relocation plan and new vision. Georgia Gould, the council’s leader, said the museum “is a nationally important institution with its roots in Camden”.
“At a time of rising antisemitism its significance cannot be overstated.”
Images: Jewish Museum London
